STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Relay for Life returned to Barren County on Saturday, Sept. 12, bringing cancer survivors, caregivers and supporters together at Beaver Creek Park in Glasgow for an evening of stories, music and remembrance.
The event raises money for the American Cancer Society while honoring those who have faced cancer and those who stand beside them. Throughout the afternoon and evening, survivors shared personal stories about their cancer journeys.
Dee Smith talked about her battle with breast cancer and said she believed throughout her journey that she would make it because God had a plan for her. She said she worried about her young son but continued to rely on her faith.
Joyce Allen also spoke about her ongoing cancer journey and said she knows God has a plan for her as well, even as she continues treatment.
Cancer survivors and their caregivers were recognized during a ceremony that highlighted their strength and support.
After the recognition, survivors led a walk around the Beaver Creek Park walking path.
Music was part of the celebration, with performances providing a backdrop for the community gathering.
Later in the evening, participants took part in a luminarias ceremony, using decorative lanterns made from votive candles placed in sand inside white paper bags.
The glowing bags lined parts of the park to honor and remember people whose lives have been affected by cancer.
Near the end of the event, Elizabeth Shoemaker addressed the crowd with remarks before the closing ceremony.
Key Facts
• Relay for Life returned to Barren County on Saturday, Sept. 12, at Beaver Creek Park in Glasgow.
• The event raises money for the American Cancer Society and honors cancer survivors and caregivers.
• Survivors Dee Smith and Joyce Allen shared personal stories of faith during their cancer journeys.
• Survivors and their caregivers were recognized in a special ceremony.
• Cancer survivors led a walk around Beaver Creek Park.
• Musical performances took place throughout the event.
• A luminarias ceremony with candle-lit paper bags honored those affected by cancer.
• Elizabeth Shoemaker spoke near the end of the event, with a closing ceremony at 7:45 p.m.
• The event ran from 4 to 8 p.m. at the park.
Cancer survivors lead the walk around Beaver Creek Park during the Relay for Life of Barren County event on Sept. 12, 2026. James Brown/Glasgow News 1
A crowd member takes a photo of cancer survivors before the survivor walk at the Relay for Life of Barren County at Beaver Creek Park on Sept. 12, 2026. James Brown/Glasgow News 1
Young musicians perform the National Anthem at the opening of the Relay for Life of Barren County at Beaver Creek Park on Sept. 12, 2026. James Brown/Glasgow News 1
Joyce Allen shares her battle with cancer journey at the beginning of the Relay for Life of Barren County at Beaver Creek Park on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. James Brown/Glasgow News 1
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